Administration Split Over Role Of U.N. in Iraq

[Khephra]

Administration Split Over Role Of U.N. in Iraq
Group's Aid Key, Many Officials Say

By Robin Wright

Washington Post Staff Writer
Wednesday, February 18, 2004; Page A12


The Bush administration is divided over how much authority to give the United Nations in Iraq, despite Washington's reliance on the world body to help rescue the political transition so the U.S.-led occupation can end June 30, U.S. and congressional officials say.

Over the past two months, a growing number of senior U.S. foreign policy officials and military officers have become convinced that the transition will succeed -- and have the widest support among Iraqis -- only if the United Nations crafts a plan and then oversees selection of a provisional Iraqi government, with help from the United States and other coalition partners.

But key U.S. officials in the offices of Vice President Cheney and Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld oppose handing over significant authority or control of the pivotal process, preferring to keep the United Nations in an advisory or support role, according to U.S. and congressional officials.

"They say, 'Can the U.N. really do it better than we can?' These are not guys who think the U.N. is capable of assuming a massive undertaking like Iraq. They argue that we've invested billions of dollars, hundreds of lives, and the reputations of a nation and a president. We can't fail. But if we turn it over to others, we lose control of Iraq's destiny," a well-placed U.S. official said.

more.............

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A49335-2004Feb17.html

[Dhalgren]

1. We'll "lose control of Iraq's destiny."

That says it all. We want to control Iraq's destiny and nothing - not US deaths, civilian deaths, international scorn, nor the loss of treasure - will stand in the little Emperor's way. This is embarrassment on an historic scale. Stupid is too elevated aterm for this crap!

[sushi]

2. Didn't * invade Iraq to LIBERATE

the Iraqis? Iraq's destiny should not be in the hands of foreigners.

[0007]

3. A big change would be seen immediately in Iraq, if the US pulled out

and took Halliburton and their beloved Ahmed Chalabi and the crime cabal with 'em. I believe the UN could bring peace and stability to Iraq.

It frost my balls to hear talk like how much power should the US give the UN!!! Give me a fucking break. The US should tell the UN we'll help you anyway we can, what do you want us to do?